Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How can I get my son enrolled into the Academy?

A. Fill out the Application for Admission and fax it to us. Eligibility will then be determined. The Enrollment Application will then need to be submitted. An intake date will then be scheduled, and payment is due before the student arrives.

Q.How many uniforms are required?

A. We recommend three uniforms as they can be worn more than once a week.

Q.How and when can I communicate with my son after he arrives?

A.Telephone calls are time limited, depending on what phase the student is in. Phone calls begin after 3 weeks if a student has completed Orientation. Students are not allowed to receive incoming calls. Letters can always be sent, and all incoming and outgoing correspondence is reviewed by Staff.

Q.Can I send emails to my son?

A. Yes, emails may be sent to the Director to be given to your son, however students cannot send emails.

Q.Can I visit my son at the Academy?

A.Yes, students may have visitors once they are in Phase III. Visits must be scheduled in advance.

Q.Can my son wear jewelry or watches?

A.No.

Q.What types of logos on clothing is acceptable? Is a Nike shirt OK?

A.Clothing brands and logos are fine but anything that pertains to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or any band, movie, artist or gangs, is not.

Q.Can my son bring pictures with him?

A.Pictures of family are fine, but no pictures of friends, girl friends, or pictures of inappropriate activities.

Q.How many personal belongings can my son bring?

A.Students have one five drawer dresser and two 3.5 foot racks with shelves for hanging, and a small bulletin board near their space. Students should not bring a lot of miscellaneous items that create clutter. A small stuffed animal is fine, or personal belonging.

Q.Can my son have vitamins or supplements?

A.Yes, any vitamin or OTC medication will be controlled and distributed to the student. Same with any prescription medications.

Q.Can extended family members communicate with my son?

A.No, only immediate family members may have contact with the student. Any correspondence from other family members must be routed through the parent/guardian and then forwarded to the school so that parent/guardian is aware what is being discussed.

Q.Can my son communicate with his friends?

A.Students at Phase V can communicate with friends, and parents/guardians must determine who is an appropriate contact.

Q.Are there Professional Counselors on Staff?

Yes. Our Program Director is a credentialed professional counselor (Social Worker) that currently works with our students on a one on one basis.

Q.My son is adopted. Is SRCA familiar with the issues my son may be experiencing?

Yes. We have students for which adoption is a major factor contributing to emotional and behavioral issues and we address these issues in counseling.

Q.What special grooming standards are there for students?

A.Students must maintain a short haircut. Buzz cuts are preferred. We provide these at no charge.

Q.How do I get my son's school records transferred to the Academy?

A.The current school must be notified that the student will be attending another school. At that time we will do a transcript request.

Q.What denomination is Shepherd's Ranch Christian Academy?

A.We are a Non-Denominational, Bible-Based School and Student Advisors come from a variety of Christian Backgrounds.

Q.What is the weather like in Whitmore?

A.From fall through spring we do receive a lot of precipitation and some snow and temperatures vary greatly according to the season. Summers can get over 100 degrees, and winter nights can be below freezing. Students should have a warm coat for the cooler months.

Q.What if I cannot get my son's Physical exam completed before he arrives?

A.Medical exams can be scheduled with a local doctor once he has arrived at the Academy.

Q.Anything else I need to know about involvement in my son's progress?

A.Parent Seminars are held approximately every four months. Your presence is extremely important at these events. On campus visits are allowed during Phase II from 3 to 6 weeks after their enrollment. Off campus overnight stays and Holiday home stays can occur in Phase IV. Non-Holiday home stays occur at Phase V.